San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Annual Native American Pow Wow

Where: Cal State San Bernardino, 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino; all activities will take place on the university's soccer fields near Coussoulis Arena

Cost: Admission is free; parking is free in lots G and H on Northpark Drive; visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets

Information: 909-452-3450

SAN BERNARDINO - Charles Tailfeathers invests his time in the future.

Tailfeathers, 68, from north central Montana, coordinates cultural youth programs and workshops to keep Native American peoples' values alive among young people.

"This Pow Wow is a celebration of time and bringing the culture here, and one of the keys to keeping the culture and values intact," said Tailfeathers, who will serve as emcee of the weekend-long Pow Wow hosted by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

About 500 Native American tribal members from Montana to the Dakotas and Alaska to Canada converge on the Cal State San Bernardino campus this weekend to celebrate their culture.

People look at items displayed at vendor booths during San Manuel Band of Mission Indian's annual Pow Wow. (Rachel Luna/Staff Photographer)

Through Sunday, the 17th annual Pow Wow honors traditional music, dance, crafts and food in a unique patchwork of Native American culture.

Tom Ramos, brother of former tribal chairman James Ramos, works with other tribal members to coordinate the huge event.

"This year's Pow Wow is dedicated to Cruz Chacon, co-founder of the event and friend to everyone he met. He is the heart of this Pow Wow," Ramos said.

"Pow Wow" is the traditional phrase for a Native American tribal peace gathering or for a meeting where warring tribes could meet to negotiate.

The Pow Wow also ensures that tribal cultures are not lost.

Native Americans from throughout the continent gather, not only for the exchange of cultural ideas and artifacts, but to compete in various events.

The Pow Wow will feature native music and dance shows for performers of all ages competing for more than $250,000 in cash prizes in Native American song, drums and dance categories for men, women and couples.

The Pow Wow includes 76 vendors selling authentic Native American art, as well as dancers, drummers and bird singers.

Here, the public can become more familiar with the Native American tribes, their clothing, artifacts and art.